You can order a heart shaped pizza from several national pizza chains such as Pizza Hut, Papa John’s, and Hungry Howie’s during select times of the year—most notably around Valentine’s Day. Many local pizzerias and regional chains also offer heart shaped pizzas for special occasions, so checking with nearby independent pizza shops is a good idea if you want more variety or specialty options.
Background: The Popularity of Heart Shaped Pizza
Heart shaped pizza has become a fun, whimsical way to celebrate romantic occasions like Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or even birthdays. The trend started gaining traction in the 2010s, fueled by social media, as people shared photos of custom-shaped pizzas. Pizza chains noticed the demand, and now, every February, several major brands promote heart shaped pizzas as limited-time menu items. The shape is achieved by hand-forming the dough before baking, and most toppings can be added as with a traditional round pizza.
Major Chains Offering Heart Shaped Pizza
Several well-known pizza chains offer heart shaped pizzas, especially during the Valentine’s Day season. Here are the most prominent options in the United States:
- Papa John’s: Offers a heart shaped pizza for a limited time in February. The pizza is typically a one-topping thin crust and may be part of a bundle with desserts or drinks.
- Pizza Hut: Usually features a heart shaped pizza on its menu each February. It’s often available for online ordering and delivery, sometimes with special deals.
- Hungry Howie’s: Known for its flavored crusts, Hungry Howie’s offers a heart shaped pizza in February, also as a limited-time promotion.
- California Pizza Kitchen: Occasionally offers heart shaped pizzas, especially in some locations or for special events.
Other chains, such as Marco’s Pizza and Jet’s Pizza, may offer heart shaped pizzas in select markets or as part of regional promotions. Availability can vary by location and year.
How to Order a Heart Shaped Pizza
Ordering a heart shaped pizza is straightforward, but there are some important details to keep in mind:
- Check Availability: Heart shaped pizzas are usually seasonal. Most chains only offer them in early to mid-February. Some local pizzerias accept special orders year-round.
- Order Online or By Phone: Most chains allow you to order a heart shaped pizza online by selecting the promotional item. For local shops, it’s best to call ahead and ask if they can accommodate the request.
- Choose Your Toppings: While many chains limit the heart shaped pizza to one topping, some allow customization. Local shops may be more flexible.
- Pick Up or Delivery: You can typically have your heart shaped pizza delivered, but ordering for pickup may ensure the shape stays intact.
For custom requests outside of Valentine’s Day, give local pizzerias at least a day’s notice, as shaping and preparing the dough can require extra time.
Local and Regional Pizzerias
If you want a unique or gourmet heart shaped pizza, local pizzerias are often your best bet. Many independent pizza shops are happy to shape pizzas for special occasions, especially if you call ahead. Some even use higher-end ingredients or offer gluten-free and vegan options.
Examples of local and regional pizzerias known for heart shaped pizzas include:
- Lombardi’s Pizza (New York, NY): Occasionally offers heart shaped pies for pre-order.
- Giordano’s (Chicago, IL): Offers heart shaped deep dish pizzas for Valentine’s Day, available for local pick-up or nationwide shipping.
- Lou Malnati’s (Chicago, IL): Specializes in heart shaped deep dish pizzas that can be shipped frozen anywhere in the U.S.
To find a local shop, search online for “heart shaped pizza near me” or call your favorite pizzeria to ask if they can make one by request.
Choosing the Best Heart Shaped Pizza for You
Consider these factors when deciding where and what kind of heart shaped pizza to order:
- Occasion: Is it for a romantic dinner, a family celebration, or a fun gesture for a friend?
- Dietary Needs: Do you need gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan options? Local shops may offer more flexibility.
- Flavor Preferences: Do you want classic pepperoni, vegetarian, or something more unique?
- Delivery Area: Does the shop deliver to your address, or will you need to pick it up?
- Presentation: Some chains offer a more defined heart shape, while local pizzerias may provide a more rustic look.
For a truly custom experience, communicate your preferences and expectations clearly when ordering, especially from a local shop.
Cost and Value
The price of a heart shaped pizza varies depending on the pizzeria, size, and toppings. National chains typically price them similarly to a medium or large specialty pizza, ranging from $11 to $18. Bundles that include desserts or drinks may cost more. Local pizzerias, especially those using premium ingredients or deep dish styles, may charge $20 or more.
Keep in mind that some shops may charge a small premium for the novelty of the shape or for special requests. If ordering for delivery, remember to factor in delivery fees and tips.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
While ordering a heart shaped pizza is generally easy, a few common issues may arise:
- Limited Availability: Most chains only offer heart shaped pizzas around Valentine’s Day. For other times, call local shops well in advance.
- Shape Deformation: Delivery or handling can sometimes distort the heart shape. For best results, pick up the pizza yourself.
- Customization Limits: Some chains only allow certain toppings or sizes for heart shaped pizzas. Ask about options before ordering.
- Allergen Concerns: Check with the pizzeria about cross-contamination if you have food allergies.
Planning ahead and confirming details with the pizzeria can help ensure your pizza arrives looking and tasting great.
Comparisons: Chains vs. Local Pizzerias
Both national chains and local pizzerias have advantages when it comes to heart shaped pizzas:
- Chains: More predictable pricing, online ordering, and frequent promotions. Heart shape is usually consistent but limited in customization.
- Local Pizzerias: Greater flexibility for toppings, dietary needs, and timing. Shapes may be more rustic, and prices can be higher, but quality and uniqueness often stand out.
If you’re seeking convenience and a guaranteed result, chains are a safe bet, especially during Valentine’s Day. For a memorable, personalized experience, try a local shop.
Alternatives to Heart Shaped Pizza
If a heart shaped pizza isn’t available or doesn’t fit your needs, consider these alternatives:
- DIY at Home: Many people make their own heart shaped pizzas using store-bought dough or pizza kits. This allows for complete customization and can be a fun date-night activity.
- Other Shaped Foods: Some bakeries and restaurants offer heart shaped pastas, cookies, or cakes for special occasions.
- Gift Cards or Pizza Kits: If you can’t get a heart shaped pizza delivered, sending a pizza kit or gift card lets the recipient create their own experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I order a heart shaped pizza any time of year?
Most national chains only offer heart shaped pizzas near Valentine’s Day. Some local pizzerias may accommodate special requests year-round if you call ahead, but it’s not always guaranteed. - Do heart shaped pizzas taste different from regular pizzas?
No, the flavor and ingredients are typically identical to standard pizzas. The only difference is the shape of the dough before baking. - Will my pizza arrive looking like a heart?
If delivered, the shape can sometimes shift during transport. Picking up the pizza yourself gives the best chance of keeping the heart shape intact. - Are there gluten-free or vegan heart shaped pizzas?
Some local pizzerias and a few chains may offer gluten-free or vegan options, but choices are limited. Always check with the shop ahead of time. - Can I freeze a heart shaped pizza for later?
Yes, leftover pizza can be frozen and reheated. Some companies, like Lou Malnati’s, even ship frozen heart shaped pizzas nationwide. - Is it possible to request other custom shapes?
Some local pizzerias may be willing to create other shapes (like stars or initials) for special occasions, but this depends on the shop’s policy and workload.
Summary: Making the Most of Your Heart Shaped Pizza Order
Ordering a heart shaped pizza is a festive way to mark a special occasion. While major pizza chains make it easy to order during Valentine’s Day, local pizzerias offer more customization and sometimes higher quality ingredients. Planning ahead is key, especially if you need dietary accommodations or want a pizza outside of the typical February window. Whether you’re celebrating romance, friendship, or just want to surprise someone with a creative meal, heart shaped pizza is a memorable—and delicious—choice.